Best Baby Gates for Stairs and Doorways (That Work for Dogs Too)
Once your baby starts crawling, stairs and open doorways suddenly look like trouble. That is why a sturdy gate is one of the most important pieces of babyproofing gear. Plus, if you share your home with a dog, the right gate can also give your pet a safe, separate space. In this guide, we compare the best baby gates by type and use, and explain the safety rules that matter most.
Disclosure: This buying guide is based on research into product designs, manufacturer information, safety guidance, and owner feedback. We have not tested these gates ourselves. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Quick Picks at a Glance
| Gate | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| KidCo Safeway Top of Stairs Gate | Hardware-mounted | Top of stairs |
| Cardinal Gates Stairway Special | Hardware-mounted | Angled stairs and banisters |
| Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate | Pressure-mounted | Doorways and bottom of stairs |
| Regalo Super Wide Gate and Play Yard | Freestanding or mounted panels | Wide openings and play areas |
| Carlson Extra Wide Walk Through Pet Gate | Pressure-mounted | Separating dogs in doorways |
How We Chose
To build this list, we focused on widely available gates with long track records, clear installation instructions, and features that match expert safety advice. We also looked at mounting type, ease of opening for adults, and how well each design suits homes with both kids and pets. Finally, always check the specific model’s label and instructions before buying.
The Best Baby Gates
1. KidCo Safeway Top of Stairs Gate
Best for: the top of the stairs
The KidCo Safeway is a hardware-mounted gate, which is the type safety experts recommend for the top of a staircase. Because it screws into the wall or door frame, a strong push will not dislodge it the way it can a pressure gate. In addition, many parents like that they can open it with one hand once they learn the latch.
- Pros: Secure hardware mounting, designed for stairs, simple swing-open door
- Cons: Requires drilling, adults need a little practice with the latch
2. Cardinal Gates Stairway Special
Best for: tricky stairs, angles, and banisters
Many homes do not have a neat, straight opening at the top of the stairs. However, the Stairway Special suits angled installations and banisters, often with optional adapter kits. As a result, that flexibility makes it a popular choice for older homes and open-plan layouts.
- Pros: Flexible installation options, hardware-mounted for stairs
- Cons: Installation can take some time, adapter kits may be sold separately
3. Regalo Easy Step Walk Thru Gate
Best for: doorways, hallways, and the bottom of stairs
Meanwhile, the Regalo Easy Step is a budget-friendly, pressure-mounted gate with a walk-through door, so adults do not have to step over it. However, because it is pressure-mounted, it belongs in doorways and at the bottom of stairs, not the top.
- Pros: Affordable, no drilling, walk-through door
- Cons: Not for top of stairs, bottom bar can be a trip hazard for adults
4. Regalo Super Wide Gate and Play Yard
Best for: extra-wide openings and creating a play zone
This gate uses connecting panels that stretch across wide openings or form a freestanding play yard. For example, many families use it to fence off a fireplace, block a large living area, or create a safe space for a baby away from the dog.
- Pros: Very versatile, works as a gate or play yard
- Cons: Takes up floor space, freestanding setups are not suitable for stairs
5. Carlson Extra Wide Walk Through Pet Gate
Best for: keeping dogs in or out of a room
With pets in mind, the Carlson Extra Wide gate is popular with dog owners who want to keep a pup out of the nursery or kitchen. Some versions include a small pet door for cats. However, if you also plan to use it for a child, check the packaging for ASTM or JPMA certification for children’s use.
- Pros: Wide, walk-through design, great for pet households
- Cons: Pressure-mounted, pet-specific versions may not be certified for children
Baby Gate Buying Guide
Hardware-Mounted vs. Pressure-Mounted
Hardware-mounted gates screw into the wall and are the only type to use at the top of stairs. Pressure-mounted gates press against both sides of an opening and are best for doorways and the bottom of stairs, since a strong push can dislodge them.
Look for Certification
First, choose a gate with an ASTM/JPMA certification label. This label shows that the gate meets the safety standard for children’s gates.
Check the Fit and Spacing
Next, measure your opening before you buy. In addition, safety experts recommend:
- No more than 1 to 2 inches between the floor and the bottom of the gate
- Vertical slats no more than about 2 3/8 inches (6 cm) apart
- A gate height of at least three-quarters of your child’s height
Avoid Old Accordion Gates
Above all, avoid older accordion-style gates with diamond-shaped openings can trap a child’s head or neck. So skip them, even if they are free.
Think About Your Dog
If you have a large or jumpy dog, choose an extra-tall gate. On the other hand, for small dogs, make sure the slat spacing is narrow enough that they cannot squeeze through. Our guide to introducing your dog to a new baby explains how gates help keep everyone safe.
How Long Should You Use a Baby Gate?
In general, most gates suit children from about 6 months to 2 years old. After that, remove or replace the gate once your child can open it or climb over it. For more home safety steps, see our full babyproofing checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a pressure-mounted gate at the top of stairs?
No. Instead, use only hardware-mounted gates at the top of stairs.
Are baby gates and pet gates the same?
Not always. In fact, pet gates may not meet children’s safety standards, so look for ASTM/JPMA certification if a child will use it.
How many baby gates do I need?
Typically, most homes need at least one for the top and bottom of each staircase, plus any rooms you want to block off, such as the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
The best baby gates are the ones that fit your space and match how you will use them: hardware-mounted at the top of stairs, pressure-mounted or freestanding for doorways and play areas. In short, choose a certified gate, install it carefully, and you will have one less thing to worry about as your little one (and your dog) explores.
Find more guides in our Reviews and Best Lists section.
Image Credits
- Boy Crawling Up Wooden Stairs: Photo by MChe Lee on Unsplash
- Two Babies Climbing Stairs: Photo by Yanhao Fang on Unsplash
- White Dog Standing Behind a Gate: Photo by Ben Grayland on Unsplash